Log jammin': transforming well logs to music

Robert R. Stewart and Samantha Brough

ABSTRACT

Physical data, such as radioactivity measurements on a Geiger counter
or well-log values, can be mapped to audible sounds using various
transformations. This process, sometimes called sonification or
audification, can provide a sequence of sounds that have an
interpretable or even musical quality. We use well logs from the
Blackfoot oilfield of southern Alberta and the White Rose oilfield of
offshore Newfoundland, in an audification process, to create somewhat
musical pieces. The audible realization of well logs may provide an
alternative realm for petrophysical interpretation which could enable
more immediate recognition of various lithologic conditions. This
procedure may also prove useful for disabled log analysts as well as
in general education and entertainment.